Should Dendrobium Officinale Be Hydroponed or Soil-Cultivated?
As a star variety of orchid plants, Dendrobium officinale is highly regarded for its medicinal value and ornamental characteristics. This article will comprehensively analyze the practical skills of hydroponics and soil cultivation from the selection of cultivation media to daily maintenance points.
Hydroponic Dendrobium Officinale Operation Guide
Advantages and Implementation Steps of Water Cultivation
Hydroponics is especially suitable for beginners, allowing直观 observation of root conditions. Choose a transparent container with a diameter of 15-20cm, use ceramsite to stabilize the roots, and keep the water level in contact with the root tips. Change the water every 3 days, and add a small amount of nutrient solution (≤800ppm) in summer. Regularly trim the decayed roots and maintain the water temperature between 18-25℃.
Handling Common Hydroponic Issues
When the leaves turn yellow, check if there is excessive light (recommended scattered light) or too much nutrition. Add activated carbon packets to control algae growth, and use 0.1% potassium permanganate to disinfect brown roots.
Key Points for Soil Culture Matrix Configuration
Matrix Formula Recommendation
Use a golden ratio of pine bark (40%) + fern roots (30%) + volcanic rock (20%) + activated carbon (10%), which ensures both breathability and water retention. The pH value needs to be stable between 5.5-6.5, and it should be sterilized by high-temperature steaming for 30 minutes before use.
Soil Culture Maintenance Focus
Keep the matrix moist but not waterlogged in spring and summer, and slightly control water in autumn and winter. Apply 5-8 slow-release orchid-specific fertilizers every month, and pay attention to preventing red spiders (can be sprayed with matrine) and root rot (regularly apply metalaxyl).
In general, hydroponics is suitable for urban planters who seek convenience, while soil cultivation is more beneficial for the long-term growth of the plants. Regardless of the chosen method, mastering the characteristics of aerial roots and humidity control is key. It is recommended to replace the cultivation matrix every 2 years, combined with division propagation to maintain plant vitality.